Chapter 116: Total Revenue of $1.3 Million

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Hardy's Office

"Hefner, for the cover of the first issue, let's tentatively go with Miss Heidi Lamarr. You can contact her to see if she's willing to appear in the photos. If she agrees, we'll get a set of perfect shots."

"Also, she won't be enough on her own. We need a lot of beautiful women. You can reach out to Edward, the general manager of HD Pictures; he'll make the arrangements."

HD Pictures had merged with Siegel's Noah Films, and it had also acquired an adult film company linked to the Spanish Gang. This adult film company had more than a dozen signed actresses who had shot adult films and risqué photos.

If these actresses could feature in the magazine, it would also serve as a form of publicity, potentially boosting their fame and value.

"This is about resource integration—multiplied power," Hardy explained.

"Understood. I'll get in touch with General Manager Edward and Miss Heidi. But boss, the company has been operating at a loss before, and the magazine hasn't even launched yet. Can you still support it?" Hefner asked with concern.

"I've arranged for Andy to secure a $100,000 loan from the bank on behalf of the magazine. This should cover the salary and production costs for the first issue," Hardy said.

Hefner was relieved and excited. "Thank you, boss. I'll get to work on this right away."

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Los Angeles Stock Exchange Center

Hardy visited the stock exchange for the second time, this time to observe Andy's manipulation of stock prices.

"Boss, I've had the newspaper publish an announcement confirming that HD is preparing to acquire Smith Health Products. We should see some interesting movements when the market opens," Andy said with a grin.

When the market opened, the news created a buzz. Investors, recalling the HD boss's previous successes with toy factory stocks, flocked to buy shares of Smith Health Products. The stock price surged from $0.21 to $0.36.

Andy then began buying up shares, causing the stock price to rise further. By the end of the first trading day, Smith's stock had climbed to $0.56.

The next day, the stock price continued to rise with the announcement of HD's interest in acquiring Smith. It hit $0.84, driven up by retail investors and the general excitement.

By the fourth day, news of a second offer from HD had driven the stock price to $1.27. Despite some selling pressure causing fluctuations, the stock remained strong.

On Friday, the stock price soared to $1.40, driven by a mix of Andy's operations and investor enthusiasm. As the market approached closing time, the stock was actively traded, with many orders executed.

Andy reported back to Hardy. "We've sold all our shares in Smith , with an average selling price of $1.24. Our total revenue from this transaction is over $1.3 million."

"Excellent work," Hardy said, opening a bottle of red wine to celebrate the profitable transaction.

"Andy, should we short the health care stocks now?" Hardy asked.

"I've arranged for someone to handle that. We'll announce that due to the high stock price, we've decided to terminate the acquisition. Smith's stock price should drop sharply, allowing us to profit further," Andy explained.

Hardy nodded with satisfaction. "When the announcement is made, let's also state that HD remains optimistic about the health care industry and is seeking partnerships with capable companies."

"I'll handle it," Andy confirmed.

Just then, Hardy's phone rang. It was Hefner from Playboy Magazine.

"Boss, I've contacted Miss Heidi Lamarr. She wants to meet with you in person to discuss the magazine's cover," Hefner said.

"No problem. Provide me with her contact details, and I'll call her directly," Hardy responded.

Hardy dialed Heidi Lamarr's number. The call was quickly answered.

"Hello, Mr. Hardy. This is Heidi Lamarr."

"I'm Jon Hardy. I've heard a lot about you. Meyer spoke highly of you, and it's a pity that you left MGM," Hardy said.

Heidi Lamarr, a former MGM contract actress, had recently started her own studio after her contract expired.

"Mr. Hardy, I'm familiar with your work, particularly 'Red Dead Redemption.' It's an impressive film. I've also heard about your recent collaborations with MGM. I'd love to meet and discuss potential opportunities," Heidi said.

Hardy was flattered. "I'd be delighted to meet you. Where would you like to meet?"

"How about my studio in Hollywood? It's nearby," Heidi suggested.

"Sounds perfect. I'll see you there," Hardy agreed.